--The Times' T.J. Simers argues that Lakers fans have a short attention span regarding Bryant's performance in the 2006 playoffs, given their negative reaction to LeBron James' play against Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

--The Arizona Republic's Bob Young illustrates how Nash has taken Jackson's comments about him carrying the ball in stride. Or you can see for yourself in this video. It's fair to say Nash isn't all that concerned about it.

Reader Comment of the Day: Don't they realize if they respond to PJ, they have already lost...PJ's stuff is not usually for the Refs, but for the players. I don't know how it works, but it does. This is some powerful stuff he has. Look at what it did to Stern. He blew a gasket and wishes he never would have responded so foolishly. And Phil wasn't even going after him. Just watch. Nash will be thinking of PJ the next time he tries a cross over dribble, instead of focusing on his next move like he should. Just that little hesitation will lead to a mistake. Nash will kick himself for even letting PJ into his mind. Nash will then get mad. Nash will lose focus. Phil will see the whole thing. Phil will get that quirky little smile. Phil will turn to a coach and boast. "Ha, I told you so" Phil will have won. -- Fatty

-- Mark Medina

Follow the L.A. Times Lakers blog on Twitter: twitter.com/latmedina. E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com.

Bottom photo: Veteran shooting guard Jason Richardson has provided a spark during the playoffs by averaging six points more a game than his regular-season average. He'll play a critical role against the Lakers as he goes against Kobe Bryant on both ends of the floor. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas / US Presswire